LB Blog
Stress in America: How workers can care for themselves and how employers must step up
February 17, 2026 · Dr. Kristin Tugman
Division in America is exacerbating stress and loneliness. Stress levels are at historic highs, engagement is at historic lows, and the ripple effects are being felt across families, communities, and organizations.
The Current State of Worker Stress
Recent surveys show that stress among U.S. workers is at an all-time high, with only 31% of employees reporting engagement at work. Individual contributors are at an all-time low of 18% engagement.
Economic worries are intensifying, healthcare affordability compounds stress, and political polarization adds another layer of distress affecting mental health.
Food Insecurity and Mental Health
One of the most direct links between economic instability and mental health is food insecurity. Research found that food insecurity causes an immediate increase in anxiety and depression symptoms, while alleviating it reduces symptoms significantly.
For workers, stress is not just about abstract fears of the economy — it is about whether they can afford groceries, pay medical bills, and keep their families healthy.
What Workers Can Do: Self-Care in Uncertain Times
Prioritize basic needs: access to nutritious food, sleep, and exercise are foundational.
Set boundaries to protect time and energy when engagement is low and stress is high.
Build connection through community groups and professional networks to combat loneliness.
Practice stress management through mindfulness, journaling, or short breaks during the workday.
Seek support through therapy, counseling, or Employee Assistance Programs.
What Employers Must Do
Normalize mental health conversations and provide access to counseling and mental health benefits.
Address food insecurity through meal stipends, grocery cards, or partnerships with local organizations.
Offer flexibility through remote work options and generous leave policies.
Invest in engagement through recognition programs, career development, and transparent communication.
Foster community through team-building, mentorship, and social events that combat loneliness.
Conclusion
American workers are stressed, anxious, and fearful about the future. Self-care can help individuals weather the storm, but employers must step up with meaningful support. Resilience will come from both sides.